Treatment Overview
Mini-Incision Scleral Buckle with Vitrectomy in Korea is a combined microsurgical procedure used to treat rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. It involves a small scleral buckle implantation to support the peripheral retina, combined with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) to remove vitreous traction and repair retinal breaks. This hybrid approach allows for effective retinal reattachment while minimizing surgical trauma.
Korea is internationally recognized for advanced mini-incision scleral buckle with vitrectomy programs that integrate:
- Small-gauge vitrectomy (25G/27G) for minimal invasiveness and faster recovery
- Mini-incision scleral buckle for reduced operative trauma and enhanced patient comfort
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for precise retinal repair
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized buckle placement and vitrectomy strategy
- Combination with laser photocoagulation, gas, or silicone oil tamponade as needed
- Rapid outpatient or short-stay protocols with high success rates
This technique ensures effective retinal reattachment, improved anatomical stability, and better visual outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Repair rhegmatogenous retinal detachments
- Relieve vitreous traction on the retina
- Stabilize peripheral retinal tears with scleral buckle
- Complement laser or pharmacologic adjuncts for retinal repair
- Reduce the risk of recurrent detachment or vision loss
Benefits
- Minimally invasive with small scleral incisions and microincision vitrectomy
- Combines internal (vitrectomy) and external (scleral buckle) approaches for optimal retinal support
- Faster healing and reduced postoperative discomfort
- Intraoperative OCT ensures precise retinal alignment
- Can be combined with cataract surgery or adjunctive tamponade
Ideal Candidates
Mini-Incision Scleral Buckle with Vitrectomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachments
- Eyes with retinal breaks or tears requiring both internal and external support
- Individuals with vitreous traction contributing to detachment
- Patients needing combined retinal and cataract procedures
- High-risk cases requiring minimal incision techniques
Possible Risks & Complications
Common/Moderate Risks
- Temporary blurred vision
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Minor retinal edema or hemorrhage
Rare/Serious Risks
- Recurrent retinal detachment
- Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection)
- Scleral buckle-related complications (infection, extrusion, or diplopia)
- Cataract progression in phakic patients
- Vision loss in severe cases
Korean specialists minimize risks through:
- Microincision vitrectomy (25G/27G) for minimal trauma
- Accurate scleral buckle placement with intraoperative OCT
- Careful intraoperative monitoring and postoperative follow-up
- Integration of adjunctive laser or pharmacologic therapy when indicated
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Core surgical technique
- Mini-Incision Scleral Buckle – External support for retinal tears
- Intraoperative OCT – Real-time retinal visualization
- Laser Photocoagulation – Secures retinal breaks
- Gas or Silicone Oil Tamponade – Internal retinal support
- Cataract Surgery – Can be combined if needed
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive ophthalmologic exam including OCT, fundus photography, and visual acuity testing
- Identification of retinal detachment extent and retinal tears
- Planning for vitrectomy gauge, buckle placement, and adjunctive procedures
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Decide vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Determine need for scleral buckle type and size
- Plan adjunctive laser, tamponade, or combined cataract surgery
Step 3 – Mini-Incision Scleral Buckle with Vitrectomy
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision vitrectomy to remove vitreous traction and hemorrhage
- Mini-incision scleral buckle implantation for external retinal support
- Apply laser photocoagulation or gas/silicone oil tamponade as indicated
- Combine with cataract surgery if necessary
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- OCT imaging to confirm retinal reattachment
- Visual acuity and intraocular pressure monitoring
- Prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops
Step 5 – Follow-Up & Maintenance
- Regular OCT and fundus exams
- Adjustment or removal of buckle only if complications occur
Duration: 90–180 minutes depending on complexity
Setting: Advanced vitreoretinal surgery center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
- Follow prescribed medications strictly
- Maintain head positioning if tamponade used
- Attend all scheduled postoperative visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision and mild discomfort at buckle site
- 1–2 Weeks: Inflammation subsides; partial visual improvement
- 4–6 Weeks: OCT confirms retinal alignment and buckle position
- Long-Term: Periodic monitoring ensures stable retinal attachment
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Successful retinal reattachment
- Stabilization of macular and peripheral retinal anatomy
- Reduced risk of recurrent detachment
- Improved visual acuity and quality of vision
Longevity
- Permanent repair at treated retinal sites
- Lifelong OCT monitoring recommended for high-risk patients
- Combination of internal and external surgical support ensures durable outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced vitreoretinal surgeons skilled in combined microincision vitrectomy and scleral buckle techniques
- 25G/27G MIVS for minimal trauma and rapid recovery
- Mini-incision scleral buckle for precise external retinal support
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for accurate retinal repair
- Access to combination procedures with cataract surgery or adjunctive laser/tamponade
- High success rates with rapid outpatient or short-stay protocols
Unique Korean Innovations
- OCT-assisted mini-incision scleral buckle and vitrectomy
- AI-assisted surgical planning for buckle placement and vitrectomy strategy
- Microforceps-assisted precision peeling and membrane management
- Personalized postoperative positioning protocols
- Integration with laser, anti-VEGF, or gas/silicone oil tamponade for comprehensive retinal care
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Mini-Incision Scleral Buckle + Vitrectomy | ₩7,000,000 – ₩11,000,000 | ~$5,500 – $8,500 | 25G/27G vitrectomy + mini-incision buckle + OCT follow-up |
| With Laser or ILM/Membrane Peeling | ₩8,500,000 – ₩12,500,000 | ~$6,600 – $9,600 | Vitrectomy + buckle + laser or membrane peeling + follow-up |
| Combined Procedure (Buckle + Vitrectomy + Cataract) | ₩10,000,000 – ₩14,500,000 | ~$7,700 – $11,000 | Vitrectomy + buckle + cataract surgery + follow-up |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
